JOHANNESBURG - Two suspects aged between 28 and 38 have been arrested after they were allegedly linked to the murder of North West anti-crime activist Thato Molosankwe.
The two suspects are believed to be linked to a broader criminal network.
This was confirmed by North West acting commissioner Ryno Naidoo on Friday as he gave an update on what he described as a breakthrough in the murder of the anti-crime activist.
During the media briefing on Friday, Naidoo said the first suspect found to have been allegedly linked to two other murders of Mahikeng business owners was arrested three days after the murder.
READ | North West activist Thato Molosankwe shot dead
The second suspect, he said, was traced and arrested in an apartment in Mmabatho Extension 39 following extensive investigations.
Molosankwe was shot and killed at his home in Lomanayaneng village on 20 May.
READ | Thato Molosankwe’s murder sparks fear in anti-crime activists
His murder sent shockwaves through the province’s activist community, with many left fearing for their own safety.
“Immediately after the incident, the Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit launched an intensive investigation.
“Evidence gathered thus far indicates that these suspects formed part of the group responsible for carrying out the attack on Molosankwe,” he said.
Naidoo said investigations continue, with the net slowly closing in on those involved in the murder.
To date, the motive of the murder is unknown, but Naidoo said they can not rule out the possibility of his activism against crime being the one reason why he was targeted.
He said investigations into the matter continue.
Investigators are continuing with efforts to recover the firearms used in the commission of this murder, as well as the vehicle used by the suspects to flee the crime scene.
“We do confirm that we are aware of the whereabouts of the vehicle, and we are in the process of seizing it.”